Nigeria's Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has declared that the proposed School of Fishery and Marine College in Iragbiji, Osun State, will play a crucial role in advancing the country's emerging Blue Economy framework.
Transformative Institutions for Community Development
The Minister made this significant announcement during the 34th Iragbiji Day Celebration over the weekend, where he addressed a gathering of distinguished guests and community members. The event attracted numerous dignitaries including the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdur-Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi (Odundun IV), alongside other prominent monarchs from across Osun State, industry leaders, and thousands of indigenes celebrating their cultural heritage and recent developmental achievements.
Oyetola emphasized that Iragbiji is experiencing remarkable transformation under President Bola Tinubu's administration, highlighted by two major educational institutions: the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji (FUADSI) and the newly approved School of Fisheries.
Empowering Youth Through Practical Skills
The School of Fisheries is designed to equip young Nigerians with hands-on training in aquaculture, marine sciences, and sustainable environmental management. According to the Minister, this initiative aligns perfectly with Nigeria's strategic focus on developing its Blue Economy potential.
"These two monumental institutions represent a generational blessing—a legacy that will change the face of Iragbiji forever," Oyetola stated. He explained that the university would stimulate educational growth, drive innovation, create employment opportunities, and attract both national and international partnerships.
Community Support and National Development
The former Osun State Governor urged the people of Iragbiji to view these projects as "living legacies that will shape the destiny of our children and generations yet unborn" rather than mere government initiatives. He called for wholehearted community embrace of the institutions and continued support for President Tinubu's administration.
"By supporting his policies, we support progress, we support unity, and we secure a better future for ourselves and for our children," Oyetola emphasized. He described the President's approach to national development as fair and inclusive, deserving reciprocal commitment from citizens.
During the celebration, the Minister praised Oba Olabomi for maintaining peace, progress, and unity in Iragbiji throughout his reign, acknowledging the monarch's wisdom in guiding the town toward prosperity. He also advised youth to avoid drug abuse and criminal activities, stressing that "there are no shortcuts to lasting success" and encouraging diligence, integrity, and hard work.
The cultural event featured traditional displays, community reunions, and fundraising activities, showcasing Iragbiji's renowned hospitality and communal spirit. Oyetola encouraged residents to extend these values to incoming students, lecturers, and staff of the new federal institutions.
"Our story is one of resilience, unity, and divine favor. As we celebrate the 34th Iragbiji Day, let us look to the future with hope and determination," the Minister concluded. "Iragbiji's greatness lies not in her size but in the greatness of her people."
The celebration concluded with renewed optimism as community members pledged their continued commitment to the town's growth and progress, embracing the transformative educational projects that promise to shape the region's economic and developmental future.
